The Nadi Meteorological Centre has forecast periods of heavy rain and squally thunderstorms to affect most parts of the country this weekend.

The special weather bulletin issued yesterday by the Fiji Meteorological office in Nadi stated that a heavy rain warning remained in force for the eastern half of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Kadavu, Lau and the Lomaiviti groups.

"A trough of low pressure remains slow moving over Fiji. Meanwhile, another trough of low pressure to the west of the country is expected to intensify and move over the group from tomorrow," the forecaster on duty said.

"Localised heavy rain may lead to flash flooding. Associated cloud and rain are expected to affect the country until Sunday."

People are advised to keep an umbrella or a raincoat handy, stay safe and keep warm.

If you are living in low-lying areas, be prepared to move to higher grounds during the day.

With the forecast of more rain, Police spokesman Inspector Atu Sokomuri urged parents and guardians to keep their children warm and ensure they were safe indoors.

"With the increasing drowning toll, the Police Force is pleading with members of the public to keep a lookout for children who are around water sources," he said.